Passenger rights by region
By airline
Good to know
What counts as “extraordinary circumstances”?
Events the airline couldn’t avoid: bad weather, air traffic control restrictions, security alerts, political unrest and strikes by airport or air traffic staff. Technical faults and strikes by the airline’s own staff usually don’t count, so they are compensated.
Is it per person?
Yes. Each passenger on the booking, including children with a seat, can claim the full amount.
How far back can I claim?
Usually years: between one and six years depending on the country (Canada: one year to submit a claim). Old flights are often still worth checking.
And my costs?
Under the Montreal Convention you can also claim proven costs caused by a delay (up to 6,303 SDR, about €7,700) and lost or damaged bags (up to 1,519 SDR). Airlines also owe meals and, overnight, a hotel while you wait.
No win, no fee: AirHelp keeps 35% of the payout (VAT included), plus 15% if the case goes to court; Compensair keeps 30%, plus 10% if extra legal costs arise. They take EU261 and UK261 cases. Claiming directly from the airline is free.